CITY OF COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA
O Prodamation
WHEREAS, the Hispanic Heritage observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30- day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402; and
WHEREAS, each year, Americans across the United States observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of the Hispanics and Latinos to the United States and those American citizens whose ancestry can be traced from Spain, Mexico, Caribbean Islands, Central America, and South America; and WHEREAS, the day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua; in addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18; and
WHEREAS, Hispanics and Latinos have deep roots in the City of Costa Mesa; and WHEREAS, residents of Hispanic and Latino origin represent thirty-six percent of the City's population; and
WHEREAS, generation after generation, Hispanics and Latinos have enriched the Costa Mesa community through their resilience, spirit, vibrancy, leadership, investments, and entrepreneurship, advancing the many successes of our richly diverse City; and WHEREAS, this year, the 2022 Hispanic Heritage Month observance theme is "Unidos:
Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation" the theme encourages us to ensure that all voices are represented and welcomed to help build stronger communities and a stronger nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mayor John B. Stephens, do hereby proclaim September 15 - October 15, 2022, as Hispanic Heritage Month and encourage the residents of Costa Mesa to celebrate and observe this month by increasing their awareness of the valuable ways Hispanics and Latinos have contributed to our city's prosperity.
Dated this 20th day of September 2022
John B. Stephens, Mayor of the City of Costa Mesa